Hailey
Arizona State University’s head coach Bobby Hurley shared his thoughts on his team’s 87‑84 victory over Kansas State in a thrilling Big 12 match on January 10, 2026.
Despite facing significant challenges due to injuries and a short-handed roster, the Sun Devils pulled off an emotional win that snapped a four-game losing streak, giving them a much-needed boost in conference play.
ASU’s Short-Handed Play
The Sun Devils entered the game without key players and struggled with limited bench depth, making it necessary for the remaining squad to step up.
Coach Bobby Hurley emphasized that although the team faced adversity, they demonstrated resilience, which was evident in the way they fought through each minute of the game.
Hurley praised the team’s mental toughness, acknowledging that, despite their limited options, the Sun Devils had a clear game plan that they executed successfully.
Balanced Scoring and Inside Dominance
Arizona State’s victory over Kansas State was largely powered by balanced scoring, with multiple players contributing significantly.
Massamba Diop and Maurice Odum led the charge with 21 points each. Anthony Johnson contributed 18 points, while Santiago Trouet added a double‑double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
Coach Hurley highlighted that his team’s ability to dominate inside was a key factor in securing the win. ASU outscored Kansas State 50‑28 in points in the paint, and controlled the rebounding battle, finishing with 48 total rebounds to Kansas State’s 34.
Strategic Adjustments and Key Performances
Hurley reflected on his team’s second-half adjustments, noting the importance of rebounding and inside play to shift the momentum.
Santiago Trouet’s hustle on the boards and his offensive rebounds played a pivotal role in the win, allowing ASU to stay in control. Additionally, Moe Odum’s leadership and defensive efforts were critical in containing Kansas State’s offense during crucial moments.
Hurley also gave special mention to his team’s ability to stay composed during tight stretches, with the Sun Devils showing resilience by closing out the game on a 10-0 run.
Despite their limited rotation, ASU managed to execute well, particularly in the final minutes when the game was on the line.
The Importance of the Victory
This win, which marked ASU’s first conference victory of the season, was crucial for the team’s confidence. Hurley acknowledged that although they had much to improve on, this 87-84 victory was a positive sign for what was to come.
The win not only boosted team morale but also demonstrated ASU’s ability to compete under pressure.
The game was particularly important as it ended a four-game losing streak that had been weighing heavily on the team’s spirits. Hurley’s leadership and the Sun Devils’ determination allowed them to get back on track in the competitive Big 12 conference.
Game Highlights
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Game | Arizona State vs Kansas State |
| Date | January 10, 2026 |
| Final Score | ASU 87 – Kansas State 84 |
| Key ASU Scorers | Massamba Diop (21), Maurice Odum (21), Anthony Johnson (18) |
| ASU Rebounds | 48 |
| Kansas State Rebounds | 34 |
| Points in Paint | ASU 50 – Kansas State 28 |
| ASU Record | 10-6 (1-2 in Big 12) |
| Next Opponent | Arizona (January 14, 2026) |
The 87-84 victory over Kansas State was a defining moment in Arizona State’s season. Despite being short-handed and facing several challenges, the Sun Devils’ ability to execute in the paint, dominate on the boards, and make timely plays in crunch time highlighted their resilience.
Coach Bobby Hurley’s adjustments and the team’s overall mental toughness were key to overcoming Kansas State, marking a critical confidence boost as they move forward in the Big 12 conference.